Stupid levels question

[Mr PC]

I am a bit embarrassed to ask this, as I've been doing this recording crap long enough to know, but--

What is the purpose for line inputs having -10 and +4 settings?

My story-- I am recording drums through a Sytek MPX -4A preamp, and then into a Digi 002r using the line inputs (5 through 8 ) These inputs have a switch for -10 or +4.

When using the +4 option, my levels in Pro Tools are pretty damn hot with the Sytek gain knobs at 2.5 or so. Isn't a +4 input "less" sensitive to signal, meaning that it is design to get hotter signals?

This is no big deal, since the stuff sounds fine. Maybe the Sytek just pumps out the jams. Maybe I should just sand away the markings on the Sytek and write "11" where the "3" currently is.....


PC

[Brian Brock]

I'll attempt an answer at this, just for fun - "consumer" grade audio equipment runs -10, and "pro" at +4. I think that the Sytek pres would be designed to put signal out at +4.

[antilog]

http://www.tonmeister.ca/main/textbook/ ... cs/03.html

note the section towards the bottom

[Mr PC]

Thanks a lot- I'm a +4 kind of guy, then. Makes me feel more professional just thinking about it--


PC